The KC-46A tanker has many upgrades over the KC-135, including the ability to simultaneously refuel several planes at once.

The public hearing was held following the release of the draft Environmental Impact Study for the KC-46A rollout, scheduled to take place over the next few years. Fairchild Air Force Base was selected as one of the alternatives to be the main operating base. McConnell Air Force Base in Kansas was selected as the preferred location.

The main operating base will host 36 KC-46A aircraft for three squadrons.